Teaching as Highlighted by Mothering: A Narrative Inquiry

Abstract

There is little research that investigates the relationship between mothering and teaching. Even less has been revealed about teaching and the mothering experience of women who are also teachers. Here we examine how the learning gained from teaching is highlighted and clarified by studying stories of mothering. By examining stories of motherhood, we observe the specific impact of mothering on teaching beliefs and how also being a mother profoundly influences teaching. Our stories reveal at least four recurring themes. Firstly, the stories explored moments of feeling inadequate, giving us the opportunity to question and evaluate our teaching and mothering. Secondly, our stories reveal our care toward students and therefore our vulnerability to students' willingness to learn. Thirdly, our stories show the great value that we place on building relationships with our students, with our children, and with each other. Lastly, the act of writing, reading, and sharing our stories helps us soften our hearts and allows us to see our teaching and mothering roles in new ways.